As I wrote in December 2009, It is going to take something much more meaningful than a cabinet shuffle to change PC Party fortunes. One of Premier Ed Stelmach's greatest challenges is that his government doesn't have a defining purpose beyond governing for governing sake, and it shows.

Finance Minister Iris Evansmay keep her job, but there are strong rumors about a comfy patronage appointment as Alberta's Representative in London, UK. With a strong political pedigree, Doug Horner is a key candidate for promotion - to Finance, or more likely, Health & Wellness. His father, Hugh Horner, served as an MP, MLA, and cabinet minister between 1958 and 1979, including as Deputy Premier and Minister of Agriculture of Alberta.

The rumor mill appears to have come to an unlikely consensus that Minister Ron Liepert will relieve Minister Mel Knight of his position in Energy. Delicate as a wrecking ball, Minister Liepert oversaw the haphazard dissolution of Alberta's regional health authorities and centralization under the Alberta Health Services 'Superboard.' I am sure that the energy sector will love him.

As the Godfather of Edmonton PC MLAs, Dave Hancock is expected to remain Education Minister, not interrupting the ongoing School Act review. Also expected to remain in their job is Environment Minister Rob Renner, who has proved his ability to deliver a respectful media performance on dirty files like climate change and the oilsands.

First-term MLA Diana McQueenwooed PC delegates in her introduction of Premier Stelmach at their 2009 leadership review convention. McQueen could be a strong addition to a weak cabinet. After playing interference for Premier Stelmach on the Alberta Hospital Edmonton bed closures, another rookie MLA, Fred Horne,has been rumored to be a candidate for Minister of Health, but more recently has been rumoured to replace Minister Horner in Advanced Education. Horne served as Executive Assistant to Minister Hancock,who also he served in the portfolio.

I would think you are right about Redford given that she is a lawyer and hasn't had a bumpy ride in her position to date. I think if Jablonski were to move, she would be a good fit in the Children's Services Portfolio...who knows though.

Between Snelgrove and Oberle, Ag and SRD will see new faces. Horne to AET eh? wow. If Redford's going anywhere its up in ranking, but portfolio is likely to stay the same. If the Premier appoints a Deputy Premier, my money's on Redford of Morton. Griffiths would make a strong addition by replacing Lindsay. Should be some interesting movements on committees as well - Kyle Fawcett perhaps, Richard Marz? Only time will tell!

My money is on Redford for Deputy Premier, she won't be moved from Justice as she's only one of three lawyers and the other two (Denis and Olsen) aren't that strong/well known but then again Neil Brown is a QC...

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Who is Dave Cournoyer? I am a writer, blogger, communicator, occasional media pundit, political watcher, & proud life-long Albertan. I studied Political Science at the University of Alberta and have served as Vice-President (External) of the U of A Students' Union, Chair of the Council of Alberta University Students, and communications coordinator for Alberta's official opposition party.